Niger State government has identified four areas that would bring about the realization of the “New Niger” agender of the present administration.
The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Hajiya Binta Mamman disclosed this during the post-State Executive Council (SEC) briefing held at the government house, Minna.
The Commissioner said social amenities, sustainable economy, good governance and urban renewal are the priority areas of the present administration.
She said the Umaru Bago-led administration is determined to change the narrative in the state hence some measures have been adopted.
The Commissioner explained that the Governor has directed the Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Alh. Garba Sabo Yahaya, to ensure immediate implementation of the ban on all illegal mining activities and also to carry out verification on licensed miners to ensure compliance with regulations.
Hajiya Binta Mamman said the state government has authorized a waiver for the employment of qualified healthcare professionals to address the shortage of health workers in the state.
She said the governor has instructed the Ministry of Information to relocate to Radio House along Shiroro Road, the Ministry of Water Resources to move to the Water and Sewage Corporation code named the as “Gidan Ruwa” while the Ministry of Environment should re-introduce monthly sanitation in the state.
The Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Barr. Maurice Magaji disclosed that the state government will take advantage of the vast land in the State and its proximity to the Federal Capital, Abuja for revenue generation, assuring that the N120 billion annual target of the state government is achievable.
Barr. Magaji said some of the strategies to be deployed by his Ministry to boost revenue generation, especially in Minna, Suleja, Bida, Kontagora and New Bussa are payment of ground rent, consent fee, and transfer of ownership fees among others.
The Commissioner added that henceforth land must be developed to a reasonable level before C of O will be given especially in the major cities of the state.
The Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, Alh. Aminu Suleiman Takuma explained that the administration of Governor Bago is in discussion with foreign and domestic direct investors towards achieving a sustainable economy with special emphasis on investment inflow strategy to boost revenue generation of the state.
The Commissioner who noted that the business environment in Niger State is not where it is supposed to be, said his Ministry will collaborate with all the local government areas to ensure efforts are made towards creating an enabling environment for business.
He said the state government through his Ministry will ensure wealth and jobs are created for the teaming youth population in the state and that all government facilities are put to proper use to avoid wastage.
Bologi Ibrahim
Chief Press Secretary
to the Governor of Niger State
31/8/2023.
